If we get accused of being “non-confrontational,” that is probably (in all appropriate cases) a real compliment, (even though it is usually an explicit or veiled criticism).  We should avoid what we pastorally-perceive to be schemed-up conflicts “like the plague,” if we can, because many (if not all) of them are, in reality, devious snares, designed to distract us from what we are called to do, and should be doing.

This little treatise is especially designed for my fellow-ministerial colleagues; but the gospel, spiritual, and Biblical principles are applicable for all the true saints of Jesus’ faithful church.

First of all, we ministers should accept that there will always be some level of conflict in and/or surrounding our lives, so long as we live in this fallen world.  This acceptance will make dealing with it much more manageable.

In this regard, at the very least we will always be harassed here by Satan and his accusations against us.  These assaults are particularly-heartfelt, since not everything the old snake brings against us is (in itself) false.  Our flesh and the world, then, join forces against us, as well.

 So the first thing the gospel minister needs to do with these internal “conflicts,” is to honestly own as much and whatever of the truth that may be found in the indictments made against our hearts.  This will be manifest in fresh gospel faith, confession, and repentance.

One of the reasons this step is so important, is because for the church’s gospel pastors to handle conflict appropriately and with victory, we must have Holy Spirit-given clean and honest consciences.  Conflict, especially in the church, will never go well for the minister who does not possess a genuinely free, secure, and clear conscience–all in Jesus alone.

Assuming, by Christ’s gospel grace, we get to this critical point, we are able to pastorally shepherd the church through whatever difficulties (conflicts) she is facing. . . .

 Another very key point, in dealing with conflict, is that of carefully following the Apostle Paul’s instructions to Timothy and Titus (in the “Pastoral” Epistles).  Some of those vital refrains, are to not needlessly enter into unnecessary and hopelessly-futile disputes and controversies. 

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